The Century 21 Committee has released its final recommendations and Master Plan for the future of Seattle Center.
Throughout their extensive public process, the Century 21 Committee received a broad range of ideas and recommendations that reflect consistent themes. These include:
- More open space, both for private enjoyment and programmed activities such as outdoor concerts.
- Work with Seattle School District on the shared use of Memorial Stadium.
- The Fun Forest is no longer the best use for five acres in the center of the campus; replace it with active open space.
- More programs for teens, young adults, children, and importantly, for the growing residential and employment populations neighboring Seattle Center.
- Make Seattle Center a place to visit everyday, a neighborhood coffee shop, lunch spot, or backyard.
- Offer the amenities that will make Seattle Center a distinct destination, even without attending a ticketed event.
- Provide more transportation options and work to ensure safe pedestrian access to and through the Center.
- Emphasize sustainable design in all aspects of the Center’s redevelopment.
Four draft-alternative plans developed by the Committee were studied in a DEIS that was released in early January 2008. They ranged from a status-quo "No-Action" alternative, to others that increased potential public and private programming space for Seattle's community and cultural gatherings. Based on comments received and additional input from the public and elected officials, the Committee is now refining their preferred Master Plan.
The Mayor and City Council will decide by July whether to put initial funding for the Master Plan out to Seattle voters as part of a November 2008 legacy levy package.
Seattle Center invites the public to a visual overview of the Seattle Center Century 21 Master Plan, on display during spring festivals, May 4 and May 23 - 26, in the north end of Center House food court. Now through Memorial Day, visitors may also view a selection of drawings submitted by readers of The Seattle Times in response to an invitation to create their own Seattle Center futures.
The Seattle Times has posted additional drawings and information at: www.seattletimes.com/seattlecenter
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